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A Renewed Attitude

Reader Contribution by Mary Conley
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Do you remember how you felt about gardening at the end of last fall? I certainly do! There was no sadness here when I picked the last green tomatoes before the first freeze. We had grown nearly a year’s supply of most produce we eat. It was my goal, my dream, and I was excited to do it. Nevertheless, by the end of fall, when the last pumpkins and squash were processed and put in the freezer, I was ready for a break. I’m sure you know the feeling.

Recently, I realized I needed to get my onion seeds going. We were in deep winter, busy with indoor projects, and I was in no mood to plant seeds. I had to put it on my “to-do” list and make myself gather the supplies. Then it happened. At age 72, there I was like a child, checking every day, sometimes two or three times a day, to see each new baby onion as it peeked out of the dirt. The spring planting fever had hit again. If you are a farmer or gardener, you know that it is as certain as the seasons. Now, to start the tomatoes and peppers!

108 baby red onions started in recycled milk cartons.

Sidetrack:

We just spent a few days at the farm sprucing up the old part of the house. It is a cozy, isolated retreat for us. Larry threw some bird seed at the end of the walk so we could be entertained while we ate. On the second day, the wind blew hard out of the North and it snowed a bit. Too cold for the birds to come out, although our pair of cardinals showed up quite early. It is difficult to take a photo of them as any movement sends them off. Do you know that they mate for life and remain monogamous? That makes them special to an old married couple of 53 years like us!

Mrs. Cardinal: “It is so gloomy this morning.”

Mr. Cardinal: “Let’s go out for breakfast. I know just the place!”